Newly redesigned, the 190XPROB makes the famous Manfrotto-patented horizontal centre column feature even easier to use. Now, by extending the column to its highest vertical position, it can be swung round to horizontal without removing the head or disassembling the column itself, so switching between framing and positioning setups is more convenient than ever. The ergonomics of the leg angle release mechanism and the quick action leg locks themselves have also been greatly improved.

I use this tripod with a Nikon D80 and the Nikon 18-200mm VR zoom. Together those weigh about 1360g (about 3lbs). Along with the Manfrotto 484RC2 ball head it is very stable and so easy to use. The locks on the legs never slip (the tension is adjustable) and the ball head make it so much easier to quickly position the camera than one of those AZ/EL heads you see used with camcorders (the AZ/EL head is better for panning with a camcorder). I used it in D.C. for the 4th July fireworks and every shot showed no trace of instability whatsoever when taking 8 second exposures.

The 190XproB is a versatile workhorse. The leg movements and leg angle positions worked smoothly and felt stable. The leg locking mechanisms work well and lock solidly and since the leg lock tension can be adjusted, I can dial in the amount of locking force as I see fit.

The fact that the center column can be positioned right side up, upside down and to either side means that I will be able to quickly position the camera where I need it... When I need it!

I was surprised to find the absence of retractable spiked feet. Why was so little attention paid to the tripod feet when the rest of it was so well thought out?

If you couple this tripod with the 322RC2 pistol grip ball head (as I did) you will have one the most versatile performers (for the money) capable of handling a wide array to body-lens combinations in a variety of terrains and shooting situations.